The Insiders: Birds, fast cars and friends

Birdwatching. Is there a more perfect activity known to man? You go out into nature, wander around with binoculars, maybe make a birdcall or two and just sit back and wait for the rare and exotic species to show up. We couldn’t imagine anything more exciting (it certainly beats sequestering oneself in front of a flatscreen and playing Grand Theft Auto V until one’s eyes bleed)! If you love birdwatching like we do, head down to the New Hampshire Audubon’s McLane Center tonight to meet and hear author Eric Masterson discuss his latest book, Birdwatching in New Hampshire. Join him for the pre-talk author reception and book signing at 6 p.m. (RSVP at 224-9909, $10 for Audubon members, $15 for non-members) or just check out the talk at 7 p.m. (donations suggested). No word on whether the talk will be in human English or birdcall. For more information, visit nhaudubon.org.

Elsewhere, Walmart on Loudon Road hosts a pre-Sylvania 300 NASCAR fan event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s your chance to look at fast cars, try out a simulator, be wowed by the ultimate tailgate truck and more! Plus, meet your favorite NASCAR driver (unless you have one, in which case, no, he or she will not be there).